Care Central VNA & Hospice, a leading provider of community-based home health, hospice, private duty, and adult day care in Central Massachusetts, will be accepting the transfer of care of patients and will be welcoming staff for employment, following the upcoming transition from Overlook VNA & Hospice.
Overlook VNA & Hospice recently announced its decision to transfer operations effective August 28, 2025. In collaboration with Overlook leadership, Care Central is coordinating a compassionate, well-structured transition of care for patients who choose to seamlessly continue with their home health & hospice services.
“Our foremost priority throughout this transition is to ensure patients and families continue to receive uninterrupted, high-quality care,” said Holly Chaffee, President and CEO of Care Central VNA & Hospice. “We are also proud to welcome members of the Overlook team who share our commitment to compassionate, community-focused care.”
Care Central has initiated onboarding efforts for Overlook clinicians and support staff, many of whom will continue serving the same patients and service areas to preserve continuity and trust. Patients and families will be personally contacted to ease the transition and provide updated information about their new Care Central care team.
“As a proud, free-standing nonprofit organization serving Central Massachusetts, we are thrilled to share a milestone moment in our history—we are doubling in size,” said Holly Chaffee, President & CEO of Care Central VNA & Hospice. “With this expansion, our service territory will reach 128 towns, welcoming 30 new communities into our care. This tremendous growth allows us to touch the lives of even more patients and families with the compassionate, high-quality care they deserve. Equally important, we are honored to welcome talented members of the Overlook team whose dedication to our mission will further strengthen our presence and amplify our impact across the nonprofit community.”
“This transition guarantees that those we have been honored to serve will continue receiving the same high-quality, compassionate care through a trusted organization that shares our values and unwavering commitment to residents and the community. By choosing Care Central VNA & Hospice, patients will not only experience continuity of care but will also be comforted by the familiar faces of staff they already know and trust,” said Tameryn Campbell of Overlook VNA & Hospice.
For more information about Care Central VNA & Hospice or to inquire about services or employment opportunities, please visit www.carecentralvna.org or call 978-632-1230.
Excitement is in the air! Get ready to be part of something extraordinary at Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts’s fundraising event. Enjoy food and drinks from local vendors as well as networking, a silent auction and wine pull. Your admission fee will allow you to taste all of the samplings and help build homes and complete critical home repair projects in our local communities
Time & Location
Oct 04, 2025, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
College of the Holy Cross, 1 College St, Worcester, MA 01610
About The Event
In today’s fast-paced media environment, dominated by social media, how you communicate about a crisis is one of the most important aspects of leading through it. Effective crisis communication begins in the calm before the storm, in developing healthy relationships with reporters, organizing your team to prepare and to act as one, and in putting communication at the very front of your leadership efforts. Admiral John Kirby became the face — and the voice — of numerous high-profile crises, from the Navy Yard shooting of 2013 to the wars in Ukraine and Gaza and dozens more. Learn from Admiral Kirby how to prepare for crises and lead — both in action and communication — when they arise.
Register here to attend Admiral Kirby’s keynote speech at Holy Cross (One College Street, Worcester) on Saturday, October 4th at 5:30pm.
This event is hosted by the O’Callahan Society and Holy Cross’ Office of Alumni Relations. Questions may be directed to
Recognition sets Bank apart from the more than 100 banks that call Massachusetts home
Fidelity Bank announced it took the number one spot from the more than 100 banks that call Massachusetts home on the Forbes list of America’s Best-In-State Banks 2025. This prestigious award, which was announced on June 17, is presented in collaboration with Statista, the world-leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider.
“This prestigious recognition is a powerful affirmation of what we already know: that our LifeDesign approach, which is grounded in care, clarity, and confidence, is making a real difference in the lives of our clients, colleagues, and communities,” said Joseph Silva, president, Fidelity Bank. “Being selected by Forbes as the top bank in Massachusetts reflects the trust we’ve earned, the service we provide, and the impact we deliver every day.”
America’s Best-In-State Banks 2025 aims to showcase the institutions most valued by residents in each state and to recognize the banks that have excelled in meeting the unique needs and expectations of their local communities. The ranking is based on an independent survey of over 26,000 customers in the U.S. Participants evaluated banks on several criteria, including Trust, Financial Advice, Customer Services, Digital Services, Branch Services, and Terms & Conditions. They also rated the importance of these criteria. A sentiment analysis was conducted using the publicly available reviews and a score.
Founded in 1974, the Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association (commonly known as Mass Youth Soccer or MYS) celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2024—a milestone commemorating five decades of development, inclusion, and community soccer across the Commonwealth. Spokesperson Jaime Balboni reflects: “This anniversary wasn’t just about looking back—it’s an occasion to reaffirm our mission: to serve, educate, and provide safe soccer play for all.”
Uniting Youth Through Soccer
One of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber’s newest members, Mass Youth Soccer functions as the governing body for soccer in Massachusetts., overseeing programming, policies, and support for more than 100,000 young players and over 20,000 adult volunteers. The organization delivers a wide array of player development programs, coach and referee education, risk management initiatives, and organizational support for affiliated clubs and leagues. Their work structures the backbone of youth soccer throughout the state, ensuring quality and consistency across all levels. Their mission, as stated, is “to serve, educate, and provide safe soccer play for all,” underpinned by a vision to “lead, inspire & unite soccer communities,” and rooted in values like fun, growth, inclusion, integrity, respect, compassion, and belonging—all reaffirmed in a March 2023 update to their mission‑vision‑values platform
Programs That Matter
Mass Youth Soccer offers numerous programs that touch every corner of youth soccer:
TOPSoccer, created for athletes with intellectual, emotional, or physical disabilities, ensures that no player is excluded from the joy of sport.
The Olympic Development Program (ODP) aims to identify and nurture elite players, focusing on individual growth and holistic development through rigorous tryouts and seasonal camps
The Districts (formerly District Select Program), launched each summer, provides pressure‑free competition across seven districts, leading up to a community event at Progin Park. The 2025 season began July 6, with district games followed by a culminating event in early August
The Town Select League (TSL) works in partnership with town-based soccer organizations to give players a higher level of development and select-level competition. TSL practices weekly and plays Sunday matches, offering structured development with minimized travel and cost
Futsal programming through affiliated leagues such as the Coastal Youth Futsal League provides year-round, small-sided indoor soccer opportunities
Resources such as session planning guides for volunteer coaches—covering U6 to U12 levels—and user-friendly educational tools like Play‑Practice‑Play methodology support effective grassroots coaching across the state
Empowering Coaches, Referees & Organizations
Mass Youth Soccer emphasizes education and certification:
Coach education includes workshops, certification courses, survival guides, and technical resources that equip volunteers to be effective mentors.
Referee development and risk management are central, especially with the enforcement of U.S. Soccer’s Policy 531‑9 (misconduct toward officials) beginning March 1, 2025, which governs all Mass Youth Soccer‑sanctioned play . All adult volunteers must complete SafeSport, concussion awareness training, and pass CORI and national background checks
They provide a Member Toolkit—a comprehensive administration guide for club officers, helping organizations comply with governance best practices, waivers, financial guidelines, and safe operations
Governance is provided by a volunteer Board of Directors, elected at the Annual General Meeting, which helps steer strategy, policy, and organizational direction
Culture & Organizational Values
“Our workplace culture is collaborative, mission‑driven, and grounded in values of fun, growth, inclusion, and integrity,” says Balboni. The team is committed to creating a supportive environment where staff feel valued, respected, and empowered—a reflection of the culture Mass Youth Soccer encourages across its broader community. In hiring, Mass Youth Soccer seeks individuals who are passionate about youth development, collaborative in spirit, committed to diversity, and aligned with their core organizational values.
Community Impact & Influence
Mass Youth Soccer’s impact is felt statewide. Through TOPSoccer, thousands of youth with disabilities gain structured and supportive play opportunities. Their partnerships with local clubs, leagues, and partner organizations help deliver programming in both urban and underserved communities. The organization’s influence is rooted in the hundreds of volunteers, coaches, and referees—the backbone of local soccer—who bring passion and commitment every day. National and international soccer organizations shape the association’s standards in safety, inclusion, and player development. Most importantly, the families and communities who participate continually influence how programs evolve to remain relevant and accessible.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
“Our future is bright,” Balboni affirms. Mass Youth Soccer is focused on:
Enhancing player development structuring across programs like Districts, TSL, ODP, and TOPSoccer.
Advancing coach and referee education, leveraging technology and streamlined access to certification courses.
Expanding access to the game—particularly in underserved and urban areas—via outreach efforts and inclusive programs.
Strengthening community partnerships, enhancing collaboration with clubs, leagues, schools, and local organizations that share the mission.
Their goal is to grow the game in a manner that stays true to their core values: fun, growth, inclusion, and integrity.
Why It Matters
In an age where youth involvement in sports is often challenged by cost, safety concerns, and access barriers, Mass Youth Soccer stands out as a state-level organization purpose-built to tackle these issues head-on. They provide programming that is affordable, inclusive, and grounded in player-centered development. By supporting coaches and referees, educating volunteers, ensuring compliance and safety, and championing inclusive initiatives like TOPSoccer, Mass Youth Soccer plays a critical leadership role in making soccer a positive, community-building experience across Massachusetts. As Balboni summed it, “Our 50-year milestone is not the end of our journey—it’s a launching pad. We remain committed to shaping soccer environments where every youth can play, grow, and belong.” This forward-looking perspective, rooted in a legacy of service since 1974, positions Mass Youth Soccer to continue strengthening communities, empowering volunteers, and connecting children with the joy and lifelong benefits of the beautiful game.
For more information
Contact: Jaime Balboni, Mass Youth Soccer Association, Lancaster, MA
Website: www.mayouthsoccer.org
Phone: (978) 466‑8812
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Looking to make a change? The Fitchburg Arts Community (FAC) has immediate availability of just a few remaining two-bedroom apartments renting for $1494/month with heat and hot water included. Are you an artist? Join other like-minded individuals looking to foster their creativity with gallery and studio space next door to the Fitchburg Art Museum. The FAC features unique apartments as part of a beautiful renovation of the historic former BF Brown School, High School Annex and City Stables. Wingate, the property manager for these apartments, is willing to work with housing authorities on a mutually agreeable rent should you have a mobile voucher. Whether you are an artist or not, ACT NOW, as there are only a few apartments remaining.
LUK, Inc. recently learned that one of the founders of the organization and retired Chief Executive Officer, Punky Pletan-Cross, passed away on August 5, 2025 after a sudden illness. He was surrounded by his life partner and wife of 52 years, Cris Pletan-Cross who also worked for LUK for 26 years.
Punky came to Fitchburg MA in January 1970 as a Vista Volunteer and with co-founder Eric “Ric” Walen partnered with the community to identify needs and to take collective action to meet those needs as a human service organization. At the time, the answer was to launch a 24-hour, all-volunteer “hotline” and Let Us Know (LUK) Crisis Center, Inc. was formed accepting the first hotline call on June 26, 1970. Punky was always clear that it was the efforts of many community members bringing their unique strengths and diverse perspectives that lead to the initial creation and subsequent flourishing of LUK over the years. Punky became LUK’s first CEO and served the communities of Central MA until his departure to Hawaii in 1998. As a CEO he was passionate about LUK adapting and creatively providing services to those community members who needed it the most. Punky was a dynamic and talented leader who worked to develop organizations in which people could maximize their talents, learn, grow and be of service to others.
After leaving LUK, Punky and his wife Cris relocated to O’ahu, Hawaii and he became the Chief Executive Officer of Hale Kipa, a non-profit human service agency serving the state of Hawaii through a network of services and programs across four islands—offering outreach, housing counseling, foster care and more. He retired from Hale Kipa in 2022. Taken together, Punky served as a CEO for over 50 years to two non-profit organizations that have helped multiple communities, served countless children, youth, adults, and families and continue to make a difference in people’s lives. Punky cared deeply about his relationship with his wife and life-partner, Cris and was a devoted husband. He was a mentor, a friend, a teacher to many, and a gifted athlete who connected with all types of people and was endlessly curious about the world.
Punky remained connected to LUK throughout the years often providing mentoring to key leaders of the organization. Beth Barto, LUK’s current President and CEO shared “Punky was the type of person who you immediately felt at ease with. He understands what it is like to have the responsibility of an organization and those we serve forefront in the mind. He had the ability to ask the right type of questions to help leaders find a way forward that always kept the mission at the center. He will be missed by many but his memory lives on in the strong foundation he built at LUK which continues to help the Central Massachusetts community today.” The community can learn more about Punky and his remarkable contribution through his obituary on-line: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/honolulu-hi/punky-pletan-cross-12480015
LUK, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the safety, health, and well-being of youth, families, and adults in Central Massachusetts. As a community-based organization, LUK’s mission is to challenge and inspire youth, adults, and families to realize their unique potential through community-based prevention, intervention, education, and support services.
For more information about LUK, Inc., visit www.LUK.org, call (800) 579-0000, or find us on Facebook (@LetUsKnowINC). Join us in building stronger communities, family by family!
Ginny’s Helping Hand, Inc., a food pantry and thrift shop located on Mechanic Street dedicated to providing a “Hand Up” to those in need, today announced it will hold its Second Annual Murder Mystery Dinner and Silent Auction. This year’s event is in partnership with the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Instituto de Liderazgo Comunitario Class of 2025, which selected Ginny’s as their community beneficiary.
The event is scheduled for Saturday, September 27 at 6 p.m. at Great Wolf Lodge, 150 Great Wolf Drive, Fitchburg, and will feature the murder mystery performance, “A High School Reunion…with a Deadly Twist,” presented by Brickroad Productions. In addition to an interactive mystery experience, a cocktail reception, dinner, and silent auction will be provided.
“The need at our food pantry has reached unprecedented levels,” said Brandon L. Robbins, executive director, Ginny’s Helping Hand. “By joining us at the event, people will enjoy a night of entertainment while helping ensure Ginny’s can continue its mission of providing a ‘hand up’ to our neighbors in need. We invite everyone to join us in being part of something special.”
“Our community’s need for support is undeniable, and we felt called to stand alongside Ginny’s Helping Hand to help bring relief and comfort where it matters most. This opportunity has allowed us to turn leadership into action and action into meaningful impact. Together, we’re helping to rewrite stories of hunger and hardship into stories of dignity, strength, and renewed possibility,” said Lynese Wiafe, help desk coordinator, Fitchburg State University, and member of the Community Leadership Institute Class of 2025. “We hope our family, friends, and colleagues will join us in supporting this event so no one in our community experiences food insecurity. Our deepest wish is that this event reminds every person facing hardship that they are seen, valued, and surrounded by a community that truly cares and that they are never alone. We want to give everyone the chance to believe in a brighter tomorrow and know that brighter days are within reach.”
Tickets are $85 per person or $650 per table. All ticket sales and sponsorships will benefit the organization’s programs and services, which include providing groceries for more than 1,800 households and 5,000 individuals every month.
Local businesses, organizations and individuals have committed to supporting the event as sponsors, including All One Credit Union, Bin There Dump That, Brennan Staffing Group, Country Bank, empHowered PR, Fidelity Bank, Fitchburg State University, Great Wolf Lodge, IC Credit Union, Congressman Jim McGovern, Madore Photography, Magic Lamp Consulting, Main Street Bank, Mount Wachusett Community College, Reliant Medical Group, Rollstone Bank & Trust, Ron Bouchard Auto Stores, Workers Credit Union.
Additional sponsorships opportunities are still available.
Partnership to provide Chamber members with exclusive training discounts and professional development
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and Leadership Dynamics, Inc. today announced they have partnered to develop an Affinity Program for Chamber members designed to enhance professional leadership development and training opportunities. Additionally, participants may qualify for reimbursement through the existing Massachusetts Workforce Training Fund.
“This partnership addresses an important business need to develop strong leadership capabilities and improve workforce productivity for our region’s employers,” said Roy M. Nascimento, president and CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “In addition to offering substantial discounts, the program will empower members with the leadership tools and training they need to thrive in today’s competitive marketplace while also building stronger internal teams.”
Key features of the affinity program include:
20% exclusive discount on all Leadership Dynamics training programs
Access to live, interactive virtual-based training utilizing cutting-edge educational platforms
Potential tuition reimbursement through the Massachusetts Workforce Training Fund (up to $3,000 per person, $15,000 annual company cap)
A variety of public, exclusive company or chamber-exclusive cohorts
Programs designed for companies seeking to grow sales, expand operations, navigate change, or enhance team performance
With more than 30 years of experience, Leadership Dynamics specializes in helping companies develop leadership teams, improve employee productivity, and increase profitability. The company offers two flagship programs: Workplace Productivity (foundational training covering goal setting, time management, communication, and delegation) and Workplace Leadership and Coaching (advanced program focusing on developing coaching skills and talent retention strategies).
Paul Brown, president, Leadership Dynamics, said of the partnership, “We are thrilled to partner with the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce to bring our comprehensive leadership development programs to the local business community. Having worked with hundreds of companies from startups to Fortune 500 organizations, we understand the critical role that effective leadership plays in business success. This partnership allows us to extend our expertise to support the economic vitality of North Central Massachusetts.”
All programs are offered in a virtual setting and delivered live with instructor feedback and mentorship coaching throughout the program duration. The training is especially valuable for companies that want to grow sales or productivity, are hiring or expanding, face management challenges, are navigating growth or reorganization, or have previously invested in training and development.
Chamber members can access these exclusive benefits by completing the registration process. Leadership Dynamics will then work directly with the Chamber to verify membership and apply the appropriate discounts. Members are encouraged to explore grant funding opportunities through the Massachusetts Workforce Training Fund.
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The North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation (NCMDC), the economic development arm of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, recently approved financing of $50,000 for the purchase of a food trailer to establish HaBBQ, a food truck business based in Rutland. Business planning was provided by the Small Business Development Center at Clark University.
Turning his passion into a business, HaBBQ Owner Jordan El-Qasem wanted to provide a unique flavored BBQ, which blends traditional Texas-style BBQ with Middle Eastern spices, while also offering halal-certified meats. Halal-certified meat adheres to Islamic law and is permissible for Muslims to eat.
“I’ve been working to perfect my recipe for the past five years and I’m looking forward to sharing my unique take on traditional BBQ with foodies, BBQ enthusiasts, and the entire community,” said El-Qasem. “The North Central Development Corporation and the Small Business Development Center made it possible for me to turn my passion into an established business with their expertise, knowledge and guidance toward the financing and business acumen I needed to make my dream come true.”
HaBBQ can be found at various food festivals, breweries, events and venues throughout central Massachusetts every weekend. For more information and a current schedule visit HaBBQ on Facebook
As a microloan lender, NCMDC can provide loans to small businesses up to $250,000 for working capital, real estate, equipment, inventory, expansion and working with our banking partners to provide gap financing for the final piece of a project.
For more information about the NCMDC loan programs, please call 978.353.7607 or visit NorthCentralMass.com or ChooseNorthCentral.com
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Celebrating Excellence in North Central Massachusetts
Throughout the year, we celebrate the businesses and individuals who make North Central Massachusetts a thriving place to live, work, and grow. The Good Morning North Central Recognition Program puts a spotlight on the remarkable achievements and lasting contributions of our Chamber members.
About the Program
The mission of the Good Morning North Central Recognition Program is to highlight and celebrate Chamber members who make significant contributions to our region. While the Good Morning North Central Breakfast series focuses on learning and networking, the recognition program specifically honors individuals, civic entities, projects, businesses and organizations that are Chamber members for their major contributions to economic growth, improvement of the quality of life in the region, major milestones and other activities that enhance North Central Massachusetts. The goal is to showcase during the breakfast program the full spectrum of our members’ achievements and their positive impact on our communities.
Recognition Categories
Business Milestone Recognition
Celebrating Chamber member businesses reaching major milestones in 25-year increments: 25, 50, 75, and 100+ years of service to North Central Massachusetts.
Leadership Transitions
Honoring new executive leadership that brings fresh vision and energy to our region, including new Presidents, CEOs, or Executive Directors of major regional employers (25+ employees) and new leadership of educational institutions and significant community organizations.
Major Business Development
Recognizing substantial investments that strengthen our regional economy through significant new business openings with major regional impact, major facility expansions or developments, and substantial workforce growth initiatives.
Individual Achievement & Major Recognition
Celebrating exceptional accomplishments that bring positive recognition to North Central Massachusetts, including major industry awards from recognized organizations, significant civic honors and community leadership, and breakthrough innovations with substantial regional impact.
Community Enhancement
Highlighting projects and initiatives that improve our region through major construction and infrastructure improvements, economic development initiatives, and programs that enhance quality of life in North Central Massachusetts.
Program Highlights
Chamber Members Only – Recognition exclusively for current Chamber members
Regional Impact Focus – Celebrating achievements that benefit North Central Massachusetts
Quarterly Recognition – 3-5 honorees featured at select breakfast events
Professional Presentation – Honorees receive recognition at our well-attended breakfast series
Community Celebration – Highlighting the full spectrum of member achievements
Attendance Required – If selected for recognition, honorees must attend the breakfast event to accept the honor
Rolling Nominations – Submissions accepted year-round with regular committee review
Alternative Recognition – Some nominations may be better suited for other Chamber programs such as ribbon cuttings or member profiles
How to Nominate
Who Can Nominate: Anyone can submit nominations, including self-nominations from Chamber members
Nomination Process: Complete our online nomination form with details about the achievement, milestone, or contribution
Review Process: A committee reviews all nominations based on established criteria, regional impact, and program goals
Recognition Events: Selected honorees are invited to attend a Good Morning North Central Breakfast as guests of the Chamber to accept their recognition
Ready to Nominate?
Know a Chamber member who deserves recognition? We want to hear about their achievements and contributions to North Central Massachusetts.
Questions about the program? Contact us at or call 978.353.7600 ext. 235.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I nominate myself?
A: Yes! Self-nominations are welcome and encouraged.
Q: Would a new small business opening or expansion qualify for recognition?
A: New business openings and expansions are wonderful milestones that we love to celebrate! However, a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony would be the more appropriate option for these occasions. The Chamber offers this FREE service to current and new members who have opened their business in the last 12 months, moved to a new location, changed ownership, or been remodeled/expanded. Ribbon cuttings are specifically designed to help you kick-off your grand opening, meet key community leaders, and get acquainted with your neighbors and fellow Chamber members. We also have other channels to help promote your business through our website, social media, and member communications. For more information about scheduling a ribbon cutting, contact us at or 978.353.7600.
Q: Can businesses nominate their employees for recognition?
A: Yes! While Leadership Transitions recognition is reserved for top organizational leaders only, all employees of Chamber member businesses are eligible for our other recognition categories. The key requirement is that their achievement must be exceptional and bring significant positive recognition to both North Central Massachusetts and their employer. Examples of qualifying achievements include receiving major national awards, developing breakthrough patents, or earning prestigious industry recognition that elevates our region’s reputation. Personal milestones like new degrees, professional certifications, or internal promotions are wonderful accomplishments that we’d be happy to celebrate through our social media, member newsletters, and other promotional channels, but they don’t meet the criteria for breakfast recognition.
Q: I am a senior-level official at my company and was recently promoted. Would I qualify for Leadership Transitions recognition?
A: Congratulations on your promotion! While the Leadership Transitions category is specifically limited to top leaders (Presidents, CEOs, Executive Directors), we have other great ways to recognize your career advancement. We’d love to feature your promotion in our member news, social media channels, or through other promotional opportunities. Your achievement is definitely worth celebrating, and we’ll help you find the right channel to do so!
Q: Will honorees need to give a speech?
A: No speech is required. They simply need to be present to accept their recognition. We will take pictures during and after the program to share on our channels, and we may ask for a quote from the honoree to help share their story, but there’s no pressure to speak publicly. The focus is on celebrating your achievement, not putting you on the spot!
Q: Who attends the Good Morning North Central Breakfasts?
A: Our breakfast events attract business leaders, community officials, Chamber members, and other professionals from across North Central Massachusetts. It’s an excellent networking opportunity where you’ll be recognized in front of influential members of our regional business community.
Q: How will my recognition be promoted beyond the breakfast event?
A: We’ll highlight your recognition across our media channels, including our website, newsletters, and social media platforms where we have a strong following of over 50,000 followers. This extends the reach of your recognition well beyond the breakfast attendees.
Q: When are the breakfast events held?
A: Good Morning North Central Breakfasts are held in September, November, January, and March. We do not present recognition awards in May since we focus on our scholarship recognition that month.
Q: What qualifies for Individual Achievement & Major Recognition?
A: This category is for exceptional achievements that bring positive recognition to North Central Massachusetts. Examples that would qualify include major industry awards from recognized organizations (like “National Manufacturer of the Year,” “Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year,” or “Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Companies”), significant civic honors (like Presidential Medal of Freedom, Malcolm Baldrige Quality Award, or being appointed to a federal commission), or breakthrough innovations with substantial regional impact (like developing a patented technology that creates significant local jobs or receiving national recognition for environmental innovation). Personal achievements like earning a new degree, professional certifications, completing training programs, or being appointed to a nonprofit board are wonderful accomplishments that we’d love to help you celebrate through other channels, but they wouldn’t meet the criteria for breakfast recognition since they don’t have the broader regional impact we’re highlighting at these events.
Q: What qualifies for Community Enhancement recognition?
A: This category recognizes substantial projects or initiatives that improve quality of life across North Central Massachusetts. Examples that would qualify include major infrastructure projects (like building a new community center or recreational facility), significant economic development initiatives, or large-scale construction projects that benefit the broader region (like developing a major mixed-use development or industrial park). Smaller community contributions like sponsoring a local event, volunteering for a charity drive, or donating to a nonprofit are valuable community support that we appreciate, but they would be better recognized through other channels as they don’t represent the major regional enhancement projects this category is designed to highlight.
Q: What if my nominee isn’t selected?
A: We appreciate every nomination we receive! Since we limit recognition to 3-5 honorees at each breakfast to ensure meaningful focus on each recipient, we may hold your nomination for a future breakfast event when the timing and program balance work better. Alternatively, we may reach out to suggest that your nominee would be an excellent fit for another Chamber recognition program that might be more appropriate for the specific achievement, such as our ribbon cutting ceremonies, member spotlights, or other promotional channels. Our goal is to celebrate all our members’ successes through the most fitting recognition opportunity.
Q: How often are recognitions presented?
A: We target 3-5 recognitions at select breakfast events throughout the year, maintaining geographic and category diversity.
Q: Do nominees have to be Chamber members?
A: Yes, this program exclusively recognizes current Chamber members and their achievements.
Q: What makes a strong nomination?
A: Focus on achievements with clear regional impact, specific details about the contribution or milestone, and how it enhances North Central Massachusetts.
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Mass Soccer Foundation is thrilled to invite you to join us again this year, back on the greens of Red Tail Golf Golf Course, for a day of fun, camaraderie, and giving back. This tournament is more than just a great day on the course – this year all proceeds will support Mass Soccer Foundation as it aims to help community soccer organizations across the state. The backbone of this sport and key to its growth for all ages, levels, and formats is volunteerism – something that has fallen off year-over-year.
Find out more about the Mass Soccer Foundation here.
Looking to make a change? The Fitchburg Arts Community (FAC) has immediate availability of just a few remaining two-bedroom apartments renting for $1494/month with heat and hot water included. Are you an artist? Join other like-minded individuals looking to foster their creativity with gallery and studio space next door to the Fitchburg Art Museum. The FAC features unique apartments as part of a beautiful renovation of the historic former BF Brown School, High School Annex and City Stables. Wingate, the property manager for these apartments, is willing to work with housing authorities on a mutually agreeable rent should you have a mobile voucher. Whether you are an artist or not, ACT NOW, as there are only a few apartments remaining.
LUK, Inc. recently learned that one of the founders of the organization and retired Chief Executive Officer, Punky Pletan-Cross, passed away on August 5, 2025 after a sudden illness. He was surrounded by his life partner and wife of 52 years, Cris Pletan-Cross who also worked for LUK for 26 years.
